Chunky Chocolate Scones

Here's an idea: instead of the usual after-school snack grabbed on the run, you and the kids can indulge in "afternoon tea." How civilized! How fun!

Children don't have to drink brewed tea to enjoy this light meal. Serve traditional fare such as scones, washed down with juice, cocoa, or milk. Or make sweet milky tea - mostly hot, sweet milk flavored with a little tea, like Irish children drink.

Teatime is a lovely and slightly indulgent time of day. Kids love it!

Today, tea is a bona fide meal in Ireland. If you serve it a little later in the day, add some sandwiches or soup, and seasonal fruit, it turns into high tea - - a simple evening meal that we call "supper!"

Regardless of when tea is taken, scones rule!

Teatime in 21st Century AmericaTurning afternoon snack into a tea party now and then incorporates a history, cooking, and etiquette lesson all in one.

Pull out the stops: spread a tablecloth on the table, use real china. Encourage the children to say please and thank you, to offer scones and other goodies to each other before helping themselves. Good manners can always use a little practice.

A scout troop or afterschool group could give a tea party for parents or teachers. They can create festive invitations, plan the menu, and set a pretty table.

Beyond SconesBaking these chocolate chip scones is pretty easy. The kids learn the importance of accurate measuring and using both liquid and dry measuring cups. They also learn to work with a crumbly dough that requires only a little quick kneading on a floured surface.

Other tea table delicacies include cookies, bars such as lemon squares, and cakes. Tea sandwiches are small and light, filled, for example, with poached chicken, smoked salmon salad, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes.

Fresh berries and sliced fruit are welcome; so is a selection of jams, preserves, honey, and creamy butter. Tea is served with sugar and milk, or if you prefer, lemon.

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Chocolate Chunk SconesScones are similar to American biscuits -- made from an easy dough that is kneaded quickly and patted into a circle with your hands. Adding chocolate chunks just makes them extra-delicious, but you could omit them and the nuts for plain scones.

Honey Tea BreadGreat bread to serve for afternoon tea or as a mid-morning snack toasted and served with butter and jelly.

Apricot Tea-Glazed DrumettesThese slightly sweet-and-sour chicken drumettes are sure to be a big hit at your next gathering -- and they make a terrific snack for kids, too!

Donna's Heavenly Orange Chip SconesA finalist in the 2000 Share The Very Best Recipe Contest, this recipe was submitted by Patricia Polesko, Drums, PA. These buttermilk scones are infused with the flavor of orange zest, golden raisins and mini chocolate morsels.